Wilson County schools chief says trust vital to goal

Donna Wright has a comprehensive strategy to raise achievement in Wilson County Schools, but her first priority will be to make friends.

Wright, an assistant superintendent at Williamson County Schools since 2012, was picked Saturday as Wilson County’s next director of schools, pending contract approval.

Her mission is to carry out the school board’s goal to rank in the top 5 percent for achievement in the state within five years and among the top 5 percent nationally in 10 years.

“If you build a relationship with the community and stakeholders, that will come,” parent Kristi Dunn said. “A lot happened over the past year, and there’s been a lot of discord.”

Wright replaces former director Tim Setterlund, who retired in January after barely six months on the job. Setterlund came under fire after he stopped for a beer in December while using a county-issued vehicle.

Setterlund’s short tenure included a number of controversial personnel and policy changes.

Wright’s strategy includes academic initiatives such as strengthening middle school curriculums and starting International Baccalaureate and career academy programs. She also wants to improve technology and teacher salaries.

Wright, who has 30 years’ experience with Knox County Schools, moved to Middle Tennessee to be closer to her son and daughter, who both live in Wilson County.

“I’ve already had questions from teachers if this is a real plan or just something for a presentation,” she said. “It’s a real plan, but it’s not something Donna Wright can do by herself. I really work hard to build relationships in order to build trust. Once you build that trust you can move mountains.”